What Are ANZAC Biscuits?

Before we plunge our hands into the flour, let’s take a brief moment to remember what ANZAC biscuits represent. ANZAC stands for Australian and New Zealand Army Corps, and these biscuits were originally made to send to the ANZACs serving in World War I. They were designed to last the long sea journey without spoiling. Nowadays, ANZAC biscuits are a symbol of remembrance and are traditionally baked around ANZAC Day on April 25th. Also, they’re just plain yummy!

The Perfect Biscuit for Little Hands

This recipe is a fantastic opportunity for some family fun time – it’s straightforward and safe enough for kids to be involved in almost every step. Plus, it’s packed with teachable moments, from a little history lesson to some practical math with measuring ingredients. Let’s get those aprons on and start our baking adventure!

Your Classic ANZAC Biscuit Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup (90g) rolled oats
• 1 cup (125g) plain flour
• 1 cup (220g) sugar (preferably brown for extra flavor and chewiness!)
• 3/4 cup (60g) desiccated coconut
• 125g (1 stick) butter
• 2 tablespoons golden syrup (corn syrup is a good substitute if needed)
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda (bicarbonate of soda)
• 2 tablespoons boiling water

Now, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 160°C (320°F) and line two baking trays with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze!
2. In a big bowl, combine your rolled oats, flour, sugar, and coconut. This mixture will form the base of your biscuits and is great for kids to stir and mix with their hands.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter and the golden syrup over low heat. If your little ones are helping with this step, make sure to supervise closely, as the mixture will be hot.
4. Mix the baking soda with boiling water in a cup. Watch it fizz and bubble! This is the secret to a nice, chewy biscuit.
5. Add the bubbling baking soda mixture to your melted butter and syrup. This will turn into a frothy concoction – it’s like a mini science experiment for the kids!
6. Pour the butter mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir it through until well combined. The aroma will be irresistible at this point!
7. Roll tablespoons of the mixture into balls and place them on the lined trays, pressing them down gently with a fork. Make sure to space them out as they will spread while baking.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until they are golden brown. Let the biscuits cool on the trays for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations are aplenty with ANZAC biscuits—add a handful of sultanas, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to mix up the flavor. Just remember to keep the modifications history-kid-friendly!

Baking with Historical Twists

While you’re waiting for those biscuits to turn golden, why not tell your children about the history of ANZAC Day? You can explain how soldiers would have eaten these biscuits far from home, and how each ingredient was chosen for its longevity and nutritional value. It’s kitchen time mixed with storytime – what could be more enriching?